Thomas Miller’s Lazarus Effect, the new venture from former founding Symphony X bassist Thomas Miller, have released “Closer To The Sun,” the second single from their self-titled debut, out October 30 on Sensory Records.
Miller explains the track:
“‘Closer To The Sun’ takes a more progressive direction than the first single, ‘When Darkness Falls.’ This song represents the combination of mythological lyrics, middle eastern tonalities and aggressive guitar and bass rhythms. I also liked the idea of acoustic guitar and violin to add another layer to the musical atmosphere, setting the story line as a buildup to the main rhythmic themes.”
Stream “Closer To The Sun”: Bandcamp
A Return Three Decades In The Making
Miller started out in central New Jersey, playing in cover and original bands shaped by the progressive acts of the ’70s and ’80s. In 1986 he met Michael Romeo, a local guitarist with progressive and classical leanings, and the two recorded and played together in several bands.
In 1994 they formed Symphony X, completing the lineup and signing with Japanese label Zero Records. After international acclaim for Symphony X, Damnation Game, The Divine Wings Of Tragedy, Twilight In Olympus and A Prelude To The New Millennium, and tours through Japan, Europe and New York, Miller stepped away from the band due to personal issues.
He kept writing and recording across various projects over the years. In 2017 he collaborated with vocalist Hollywood How Portney, and after years of interactions with fans and recognizing the chemistry with How, decided to start writing for what became Thomas Miller’s Lazarus Effect.
Two former Symphony X bandmates lend their talents to the project: guitarist Michael Romeo and keyboardist Michael Pinnella. Eric Rachel, producer of Symphony X’s first six albums as well as work with Black Sabbath and The Black Dahlia Murder, handled mixing and mastering. Art and design come from Rodrigo Gudiña.
The result is a 49-minute progressive metal opus built on majestic themes and layered musical overtones. Fans of Symphony X, Dream Theater, Circus Maximus, Redemption and Kamelot will find plenty here.
Pre-order the album: Sensory Records webstore | Bandcamp
Out October 30 on CD, LP and digital. The jewel case CD includes a 12-page booklet. A new video and more from the album are due over the coming weeks.
Photos by Danny Sanchez
